MURFREESBORO, TN - A small gray SUV caught fire in Murfreesboro on Interstate 24 Tuesday morning, leaving the vehicle a total loss. The incident occurred around 10:00 AM in the Nashville-bound lane near Exit 80 at the New Salem Highway interchange. The Tennessee Highway Patrol was the first to respond to the scene after reports of the fire.

Fortunately, no serious injuries were associated with the incident, but the cause of the fire remains unknown. A passersby who contacted WGNS expressed concern and sought details about what happened and whether anyone was hurt. Officials confirmed there were no injuries despite the dramatic scene that left the SUV in ruins.

While vehicle fires are often unexpected and alarming, they are more common than many realize. Nationally, there are between 170,000 and 222,000 vehicle fires each year. In 2021 alone, 650 deaths were attributed to such fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, most vehicle fires—62%—originate in the engine, transmission, or wheel area, with mechanical failures being the leading cause of ignition in 45% of cases.

As for Tuesday's fire, investigators will have to examine the remnants of the SUV to determine what sparked the blaze.